• UGI USER
  • Dec 09, 2023
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PRIVATE BILL ADVOCATING GOVERNOR ACCOUNTABILITY

Why in the News?

  • A private member’s Bill was introduced in Rajya Sabha aimed at amending the Constitution, addressing concerns surrounding the accountability of Governors.

Objectives of the Bill:

  • The Bill proposed empowering State Assemblies to remove Governors.
  • The Bill emphasized that the stature and dignity of the Governor’s office required the occupant to enjoy genuine support from the people and be accountable to them.
  • It argued against the appointment of the Head of State governments through executive orders, deeming it contrary to democratic principles and federal spirit.

Proposed Amendments to Constitution

  • Proposes changes to the Constitution, suggesting the election of Governors by an electoral college consisting of Legislative Assemblies, members of gram panchayats, municipalities, and corporations.
  • The election process would use proportional representation through a single transferable vote and secret ballot.
About Private Member Bill

·   Any MP not holding a ministerial position is termed a private member.

·   Private member’s bills aim to highlight perceived issues in existing laws, representing the opposition’s stance on public matters.

·   Responsibility for drafting lies with the concerned member.

·   One month’s notice is required for introducing it in the House.

·   Unlike government bills, private member’s bills are discussed exclusively on Fridays.

·   Rejection doesn’t impact parliamentary confidence or government resignation.

·   After discussion, the member can withdraw the bill at the minister’s request or proceed with its passage.

·   The last private member’s bill passed by both Houses was in 1970—Supreme Court (Enlargement of Criminal Appellate Jurisdiction) Bill, 1968

In summary, the Private Bill aimed to redefine the appointment process of Governors, emphasizing accountability and democratic principles, with substantial backing from Opposition members advocating for the protection of federal rights